Illinois Water Resources Center

Bringing watershed science to the people of Illinois

Research

We fund research throughout the state. Take a look at some of our recent projects.

Tropical Storm Precipitation

Tropical storms temporarily increase stream flow by an average of 866 percent, with larger surges in wet years.

Woody Perennial Polyculture

The country’s first savanna-based agriculture system captured 5-10 times more nitrate than corn and soybean in its second year.

Litter in Urban Streams

An estimated 21-78 metric tons of human debris is present in five Chicago-area watersheds at any time.

Initiatives

Nutrient Loss Reduction

We work with agencies, communities, industry partners, and researchers to implement the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy and track phosphorus and nitrogen reductions.

Professional Engagement

Our memberships in national water-related organizations give Illinois researchers and students access to a wide array of workshops, conferences, fellowships, and grant programs.

Illinois Water Conference

Since 1998, our biennial conference has brought together scientists, agency personnel, and students to discuss the latest research on Illinois water resource issues.

Water Operator

Through a collaboration with state, regional, and federal partners, we oversee a web portal with free technical and training resources tailored to small community water and wastewater operators.

The Private Well Class

We partner with state, regional, and federal organizations to offer a web-based curriculum for well owners, realtors, and others interested in well care best practices.

UpClose

We co-produce an interview series that takes readers behind the scenes of the latest research on emerging contaminants.

News

Amateaur_Jennifer Byard_Enjoying Lake Michigan

IWRC Announces “Water Is” Contest Winner

The Illinois Water Resources Center is pleased to announce the winners of the second annual “Water Is” photo contest.

Illinois Water Conference Featured on WILL

Participants in the University of Illinois 2016 Water Quality Conference Reducing Nutrient Losses panel discussed ways in which farmers and landowners can manage water quality with University of Illinois Extension’s radio personality Todd E. Gleason.

New video series helps gardeners get started

Follow Illinois Water Resources Specialist Katie Hollenbeck as she shares easy tips for creating pollinator-friendly gardens and landscapes. Over the course of this series, she talks about everything from when to plant to how to create beautiful gardens with native plants.